Energy efficient illumination apparatus and method for illuminating surfaces

ABSTRACT

A system for illuminating an object is provided, the system comprising a coherent or semi-coherent light source and a first diffuser positioned relative to the coherent or semi-coherent light source so as to receive said coherent or semi-coherent light. The first diffuser may diffuse the light to produce diffused light. An actuator having moveable elements, such as a moveable reflective and/or phosphorus surfaces, may be positioned to project the diffused light onto an object, and may be moved to project light onto different portions of the object. This movement may be performed with such rapidity that it is not perceived by a person viewing the object. Rather, the entire object would appear to be illuminated. Movement of the elements may be controlled by a computer, and may be performed according to a predefined routine.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation in part of continuance patentapplication Ser. No. 13/770,249 which was allowed but not presentlyissued and related to U.S. Pat. No. 8,376,585 issued on Feb. 19, 2013which claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/197,412 filed Oct. 28, 2008, the disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Light sources produce incoherent light (i.e., which has a phase thatvaries randomly with time and position) or coherent light (i.e., whichhas a phase that does not vary randomly with time and position). Thevast majority of light is produced from incoherent light sources (e.g.,halogen bulbs, incandescent lamps, LED lights, etc.). The most commonform of coherent light is produced by light amplification by stimulatedemission of radiation (i.e., laser).

Typically, lasers produce coherent light by either emitted light in anarrow, low-divergence beam, or converted light into coherent light withthe help of optical components such as lenses. The coherent lightproduced by lasers can be a narrow wavelength spectrum (i.e.,monochromatic light), a broad spectrum (i.e., polychromatic light), orin some instances at multiple distinct wavelengths simultaneously (i.e.,selectively-chromatic light). Some techniques presently used enablediffusion of the coherent light produced by lasers. For example, a laserbeam may pass through a diffuser to spread the beam. Similarly,apertures may be placed in front of light projected from a laser toenable only some

light to pass through the aperture.

The first lasers were gas lasers. Gas lasers require large power sourcesand generate significant quantities of heat radiation. Presently, thereare many forms of lasers (e.g., chemical lasers, excimer lasers,fiber-hosted lasers, photonic crystal lasers, dye lasers, and freeelectron lasers). However, the advent of solid state lasers andsemiconductor lasers have yielded commercial laser diodes capable ofemitting coherent light at wavelengths from 375 nm to 1800 nm (and insome instances wavelengths of over 3 μm). These low power laser diodesrequire wattages that are less than one watt of power in most instances.Because of their extremely low energy, requirements laser diodes haveyielded numerous technological breakthroughs, such as, CD players, DVDPlayers, Laser pointers, laser printers, and numerous other devices.However, there are still many technological breakthroughs that have yetto be yielded by these low energy diodes.

Presently, the United States and the world are making efforts to reduceenergy consumption. For example, there has been a large push in recentyears to switch from incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescentlamps. Some have even begun using LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamps as aneven more energy efficient light source than compact fluorescent lamps.While these innovations are a step in the right direction, there isstill a need to investigate other means for reducing energy consumption.

For example, a large quantity of electrical energy is consumed inilluminating signs and other surfaces at night. Notably, in Apr. of2009, the lights reflected off the surfaces of the Leonard P. ZakimBridge were reported to cost over $5,000 per month and were therebyshutdown indefinitely. Further, many signs on the roads require lightingby highly inefficient high powered bulbs. Even further, many residentialand commercial properties use similar bulbs to reflect off interior andexterior surfaces. Illuminating all of these surfaces creates a largeburden, both environmentally and financially, due to the energyconsumed. Thus, a need exists to create an energy efficient illuminationapparatus and method for illuminating surfaces.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of the invention provides a system for illuminating,comprising a coherent or semi-coherent light source and a first diffuserpositioned relative to the coherent or semi-coherent light source so asto receive said coherent or semi-coherent light. The first diffuser maydiffuse the light to produce diffused light. Further, an actuator havinga moveable element or moveable elements may be positioned to project thediffused light onto an object. The moveable element or elements may be areflective surface and/or phosphorous coated surface or can employmultiple surfaces. Movement of the element or elements may be controlledby a computer, and may be performed according to a predefined routine.

According to one aspect, the diffused light may be further reflected offthe object and onto a display surface. According to another aspect, theobject may be a panel including a concave edge and/or a reflective orprosperous coating. For example, the diffused light may be reflected offthe moveable coated surface of the actuator and through a concave edgeof a panel to disperse light throughout the panel. Other edges of thepanel may be coated with a reflective coating or phosphors to furtherspread light throughout the panel, so that a display surface appearsilluminated using a decreased amount of light from the source.

According to another aspect, the actuator the moveable element may bepositioned within the object and may consist of more than one elementand actuator. Alternatively or additionally, a second diffuser capableof moving relative to the first diffuser may be used. Further, thecoherent light source, the first diffuser, and the actuator may be sizedto fit within the object.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method for illuminating anobject, comprising emitting coherent or semi-coherent light, diffusingthe coherent Or semi-coherent light to produce diffused light,projecting the diffused light onto the object, and scanning the diffusedlight on and off the object or in a predetermined pattern on the object.Such scanning may form an image, e.g., a particular shape on a displaysurface. Further, at least one of color, brightness, or scanning patternof the diffused light may be modified in response to a predeterminedcondition or light a predetermined condition. Even further, the diffusedbeam may be reflected off an object onto a display surface, for example,to achieve “backlighting.”

Yet another aspect of the invention provides a system for illuminatingan object, comprising a sensor for detecting a condition and anillumination device communicatively coupled to the sensor. Theillumination device may comprise a coherent or semi-coherent lightsource, a diffuser positioned relative to the coherent light source soas to diffuse light from the semi-coherent or coherent light source toproduce diffused light, and an actuator having a moveable element oractuators with moveable elements positioned to project the diffusedlight onto an object. The illumination device may be activated inresponse to detection of a condition by the sensor. According to oneaspect, a processor may be communicatively coupled between the sensorand the illumination device, for example, to control activation of theillumination device. Moreover, the processor may be programmed todetermine whether the illumination device requires maintenance. Thecondition detected by the sensor may relate to at least one of light,sound, pressure, movement, seismic waves, electromagnetic signals,microwaves, and color. Further, the condition detected by the sensor maybe the presence of a motor vehicle, and the illumination device may inturn illuminate a road sign.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a side view illustration of diffusion of laser light accordingto an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 2A-2C are side view illustrations of a laser light sourceproducing an image on a surface according to an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 3A-C illustrates several embodiments of reflective diffusersaccording to the invention.

FIGS. 4A-B are side view illustrations of an illumination system usingmultiple diffusers according to an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 5A-B are side view illustrations of an illumination system usingshape modifiers for creating a desired pattern according to an aspect ofthe invention.

FIGS. 6A-B illustrate scanning patterns according to an aspect of theinvention.

FIGS. 7A-B are detailed views of viewing surfaces according to an aspectof the invention.

FIGS. 8A-C are schematic diagrams of dynamic lasers illuminating asurface for viewing according to an aspect of the invention.

FIGS. 9A-D illustrate an illumination system using dynamic diffusersaccording to an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 10 illustrates illumination of a panel using an illumination deviceaccording to an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a detailed cross-sectional view of a surface of anilluminated panel according to an aspect of the invention.

FIG. 12 is a system for illuminating a panel according to an aspect ofthe invention.

FIG. 13 is a system for illuminating a panel according to another aspectof the invention.

FIG. 14 is a system for illuminating a panel according to another aspectof the invention.

FIGS. 15A-15C illustrate various panel surfaces in an illuminationsystem according to an aspect of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic representation of a system according to anaspect of the invention.

FIG. 17 illustrates an illumination system using dynamic diffusersaccording to an aspect of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosed subject matter provides an apparatus and method forilluminating a surface for viewing. The apparatus and/or method includea laser light source and a diffuser for shaping the beam of light to adesired pattern sufficient to enable illuminating a surface for viewing.The desired pattern can be projected or scanned across the surface forviewing in a predetermined path.

The diffuser can be at least one of a reflective coated or phosphorouscoated diffuser and lens diffuser. Further, the diffuser can be any ofan optical lens, a convex reflective or phosphorous coated surface, aconcave reflective or phosphorous coated surface, and a substantiallyflat reflective or phosphorous surface or independent surfacespositioned side by side to unilaterally move portions of the beam on oroff the object. In some instances, the apparatus and/or method canfurther include a second diffuser capable of moving relative to thefirst diffuser. The second diffuser can move the desired pattern througha predetermined path. The second diffuser can be at least one of asecond reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser and second lensdiffuser. Further, the second diffuser can be any of an optical lens, aconvex reflective or phosphorous surface, a concave reflective orphosphorous surface, and a substantially flat reflective or phosphoroussurface or surfaces side by side moving independent of each other. Theapparatus and/or method can further include an aperture located betweenthe diffuser and the surface for viewing. The aperture can be designedto only allow projecting of the desired pattern onto a specific regionof the surface for viewing.

Scanning can be accomplished by various techniques. Scanning techniquescan include the use of at least one dynamic diffuser, at least onedynamic laser, and any combination thereof alone or in conjunction.Accordingly, scanning can require driving any one of at least onedynamic laser and at least one dynamic diffuser.

By way of a first example, scanning can be accomplished with theassistance of a first fixator attached to the laser capable of movingthe laser in a first axis; and a second fixator attached to the lasercapable of moving the laser in a second axis. The first fixator andsecond fixator can be capable of moving the laser through thepredetermined path along the first and second axis thereby causing thedesired pattern to move through the predetermined path. For example, thefirst axis can be horizontal and the second axis can vertical. Thus, thepredetermined path can be designed to scan the desired patternhorizontally and vertically across the surface for viewing.

By way of a second example, scanning can be accomplished with a firstreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser and a second reflective orphosphorous diffuser. The first reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser can reflect the desired pattern in a first direction onto thesecond reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser; and the secondreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser can reflect the pattern in asecond direction. Thus, the first reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser and second reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser arecapable of scanning the desired pattern through the predetermined path.Further, the first and second reflective or phosphorous coated diffusercan be any one of flat, convex, or concave. The first reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser can include multiple sides and can bedesigned to rotate about itself or can have multiple surfaces workingindependent of each other in a side by side two dimensional pattern. Thesecond reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser can be mounted on anangle to a rotating shaft or can be a multiple reflective or phosphoroussurfaces positioned in a side by side configuration and positioned tothe first diffuser. The combination of the first reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser having multiple surfaces or sides and thesecond reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser mounted on an angle canyield a non-linear pattern.

It is to be understood that throughout the text of this applicationlaser light is referred to in the broad sense of any coherent lightsource, including semi-coherent light sources. Accordingly, any form ofsuitable laser light source or coherent light source may be used. Forsimplicity a single laser light source is illustratively depicted anddescribed. However, it is envisioned that more than one laser lightsource may be used collectively for illuminating a surface for viewing.

In some embodiments, an apparatus and method are disclosed that use alow power laser light source (e.g., solid state laser, semiconductorlaser, etc.) for producing a laser light. This laser light interactswith a diffuser shaping the light to a desired pattern sufficient forilluminating a surface for viewing. In some instances, this surface forviewing can be a highly reflective surface such as a Department ofTransportation (“DOT”) sign (e.g., stop signs) or the surface could bephosphorous coated. Further, in some embodiments, for larger surfaces(e.g., DOT highway signs, billboards, etc.) the desired pattern can bemoved (e.g., scanned) through a predetermined path at a substantiallyhigh velocity such that the entire surface for viewing is illuminated.

To ease understanding of the disclosed subject matter, the apparatus andmethod are described as being located on a static surface at an offsetfrom the surface for viewing (e.g., stop signs, DOT highway signs,billboards, etc.). However, the disclosed subject matter can be locatedon a dynamic surface, for example, to compensate for vibration, adjustscanning, increase/decrease the predetermined path, or for any otherreason deemed suitable. Further, the apparatus and method can bemodified for a substantially larger scan (e.g., by adjusting aperture,increasing laser power, etc.) for use in a lighting system on, forexample, a boat, a vehicle, an aircraft, part of an illumination systemfor aircraft landing, very large signs, reflectively painted runways, orfor any other reason deemed suitable. Alternatively, the disclosedsubject matter can be designed for use as a hand held device (e.g., as ahand held illuminator, etc).

Referring to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, a laser light source 102produces a light 104 that is incoherently increased by a diffuser 106expanding light 104 to light 108 that substantially covers the surfacearea of a surface 110. Diffuser 106 can be any device capable ofexpanding (i.e., spreading out or scattering) light. Further, theelectrical energy (i.e., wattage) supplied to laser light source 102 canbe adjusted thereby providing the appropriate quantity of light neededfor illuminating the surface for viewing. For example, the laser lightsource can be adjusted for reflecting off of a DOT highway sign suchthat the sign is visible to a driver at a suitable distance from thesign.

Referring to FIG. 2A, an illustrative depiction of laser light source102 is shown producing light 104 (i.e., a coherent light beam) yieldinga laser light spot 200 on surface 110. Laser light spot 200 issubstantially small compared to surface 110 and thus cannot illuminateall of surface 110.

Referring to FIGS. 2B-C, diffuse 106 is illustratively depicted as alens diffuser 106 a, in accordance with some embodiments of thedisclosed subject matter. Referring to FIG. 2B, light 104 produced bylaser light source 102 is illustratively depicted as passing throughlens diffuser 106 a. As shown, lens diffuser 106 a modifies the shape oflight 104 (i.e., light 104 becomes semi-coherent) to light 108 creatinga desired pattern 202 on surface 110. In some instances, modifying theshape of light 104 to light 108 allows for a greater area ofillumination on surface 110. In some embodiments, lens diffuser 106 amodifies light 104 to a substantially circular pattern. Referring toFIG. 2C, in other embodiments, lens diffuser 106 a is capable ofmodifying light 104 into a substantially linear desired pattern 204.Further, although not shown, light 104 can be modified into any desiredpattern, such as, but not limited to a circular pattern.

Although described as a lens diffuser, diffuser 106 a can be, but is notlimited to, ground glass diffusers,

Teflon® diffusers, holographic diffusers, opal glass diffusers, andgreyed glass diffusers. Lens diffuser 106 a can be ground or cut todiffuse the light in many different ways. For example, although notshown, lens diffuser 106 a can modify light 104 into multiple lights.That is, lens diffuser 106 a can be made in such a way as to modifylight 104 from a single light to any plurality of lights. Although lensdiffuser 106 a is illustrated as a single diffuser, in some embodiments,multi-diffusers (e.g., multiple lens diffusers) can be used to createthe desired pattern on surface 110.

Referring to FIGS. 3A-C, diffuser 106 is shown as a reflective diffuser106 b. Reflective diffuser 106 b can be, but is not limited to, mirrors,reflective surfaces, and highly reflective surfaces. Further, in someembodiments, reflective diffuser 106 b can be shaped, such as, but notlimited to, concave, convex, flat, spheroid, conical, any multisidedgeometric shape, or any other shape deemed suitable. For example,referring to FIG. 3A, reflective diffuser 106 b includes a concavesurface capable of modifying light 104 to light 108 creating desiredpattern 302 on surface 110. Further, referring to FIG. 3B, reflectivediffuser 106 b includes a convex surface capable of modifying light 104to light 108 creating desired pattern 304 on surface 110. Further still,referring to FIG. 3C, reflective diffuser 106 b includes a flat surfacecapable of modifying light 104 to light 108 creating desired pattern 306on surface 110.

Although reflective diffuser 106 b is illustrated as a single diffuser,in some embodiments, multi-diffusers (e.g., multiple reflectivediffusers) can be used to create the desired pattern on surface 110.Further, in some embodiments, the size and shape of the desired patterncan be modified by changing the angle of deflection off of reflectivediffuser 106 b. Further still, in some embodiments any combination of atleast one reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser and at least onelens diffuser can be used, alone or in combination, to create thedesired pattern on surface 110.

In some embodiments, laser light source 102 can be selected based on aparticular wavelength or frequency interval of light generated by it.This may be done to increase illumination of a surface for viewing byselecting a wavelength interval or frequency interval based on the colorof the surface for viewing or a specific region on the surface forviewing. For example, the laser light source can be selected to producered light (e.g., 700-635 nm wavelength interval 430-480 THz frequencyinterval), orange light (e.g., 635-590 nm wavelength interval 480-510THz frequency interval), yellow light (e.g., 590-560 nm wavelengthinterval 510-540 THz frequency interval), green light (e.g., 560-490 nmwavelength interval 540-610 THz frequency interval), blue light (e.g.,490-450 nm wavelength interval 610-670 THz frequency interval), violetlight (e.g., 450-400 nm wavelength interval 670-750 THz frequencyinterval) or any combination thereof based on the color emitted by thelaser light source and the color of the surface for viewing. Forexample, a laser light source capable of emitting green coherent lightmay be selected for a red stop sign.

In some embodiments, the desired pattern can be created by a pluralityof diffusers capable of moving relative to each other. Referring toFIGS. 4A-B, a first reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 106 bmoves relative to a second reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 106b′. Moving a plurality of diffusers is not limited to linear motion,only moving one diffuser, or only two diffusers. Rather, in effort toease understanding, FIGS. 4A-B illustratively depicts a simple linearmovement of a first reflective diffuser 106 b relative to a secondreflective diffuser 106 b′.

Further, although described as reflective diffusers, any type ofdiffuser can be used to create the desired pattern. For example, FIGS.4A-B depicts a spheroid/columnar reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser and a concave reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser.Alternatively, any plurality of shapes can be used as diffusers.Further, in some embodiments, moving a plurality of diffusers relativeto each can be accomplished by any technique, such as, but not limitedto, mechanically motion (e.g., piston/cylinder, screw/thread, etc.),electromechanically motion (e.g., electric motor driven, etc.),electromagnetically driven motion, or by any other technique deemedsuitable.

Referring to FIG. 4A, first reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser106 b is located at an initial offset from second reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser 106 b′ creating a first desired pattern 402on surface 110 (not shown). Referring to FIG. 4B, the offset betweenfirst reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 106 b and secondreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 106 b′ is decreased creating asecond desired pattern 404 on surface 110 (not shown).

In some embodiments, after passing through or reflective off of thediffuser, the light can be further shape modified. This shapemodification may be required, for example, to cleave the light or blockthe light prior to illuminating a surface for viewing. There are manybenefits to shape modifying the light, such as, but not limited to,eliminating any safety risk created by having excessive light outside ofa surface for viewing or to outline a region of a surface for viewing.

For example, referring to FIGS. 5A-B, light 104 emitted from laser lightsource 102 can be shape modified to a desired pattern. As shown in FIG.5A, after light 104 interacts with lens diffuser 106 a at least some ofthe light can be blocked by a shield 504 thereby creating a shapemodified desired pattern 506 on surface 110. As shown, the shapemodified desired pattern 506 illustratively depicted in FIG. 5A is roundwith an empty (i.e., lightless) polygon (e.g., heptagon) center.Further, as shown in FIG. 5B, after light 104 interacts with lensdiffuser 106 a at least some of the light can be cleaved by an aperturelike device 508 thereby creating a shape modified desired pattern 510 onsurface 110. Although shape modifying is described as occurring afterthe light exits a lens diffuser this is by way of example only. Shapemodifying can occur before or after laser light exits or enters any of asingle diffuser or a plurality of diffusers. Further, althoughillustratively depicted as a lens diffuser, any diffuser can be used.

As described below in greater detail, in some embodiments, forilluminating a substantially large surface for viewing a desired patternmay be scanned. Scanning can be accomplished by any suitable technique.Scanning techniques may include the use of a static laser, a dynamiclaser, a static diffuser, a dynamic diffuser, or any combination thereofalone. Therefore, scanning techniques using a dynamic laser and/or adynamic diffuser may incorporate a mechanical, electromechanical,electromagnetic, or robotic device for moving any of the dynamic laser,the dynamic diffuser, or any combination thereof. Accordingly, in someembodiments, scanning/moving can be accomplished by any suitabletechnique, such as, but not limited to, a crank extending from a motor;electromagnetic induction causing a magnet to move; a cartesian robot; agantry robot; a cylindrical robot; spherical/polar robot; a SCARA robot;an articulated robot; and a parallel robot.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-B, as discussed above, a desired pattern 602/606can be scanned through a predetermined path 604/608 on surface 110. Forexample, scanning through the predetermined path may be performed sorapidly that one viewing the surface would not see a small illuminatedportion being scanned across the screen, but would rather perceive theentire viewing surface as illuminated.

In some embodiments, the desired pattern is raster scanned through apredetermined path. The predetermined path can be any path, such as, butnot limited to, a snake like path, an S pattern, spiral pattern,horizontal pattern, vertical pattern, horizontal and vertical pattern, arandom pattern, or any other pattern deemed suitable. Further, in someembodiments, as depicted by contrasting FIG. 6A to FIG. 6B, aproportional relationship exists between the desired pattern 602/606 andpredetermined path 604/608. Thus, in some embodiments, the scanningtechnique can be predicated on a scanning velocity, the size of surface110, the desired pattern's (and/or shape modified desired pattern's)shape and size, the predetermined path, and/or the combination of atleast one laser light source.

In some embodiments, the scanning technique can be predicated on aphosphorous coated surface and or reflectivity surface for viewing. Forexample, referring to FIGS. 7A-B, surface 110 can have differing levelsof reflectivity and may be combined with phosphorous coatings (notshown). By comparing FIG. 7A to 7B the interaction between reflectivityof surface 110 and the techniques for illuminating surface 110 becomesapparent. For example, surface 110 in FIG. 7A has a substantially lowerlevel of reflectivity than surface 110 in FIG. 7B, which includes aplurality reflective beads 702. Thus, in some embodiments, the scanningtechnique can be predicated on the scanning velocity, the reflectivityof surface 110, phosphorous coatings on 110, the size of surface 110,the desired pattern's (and/or shape modified desired pattern's) shapeand size, the predetermined path, and/or the combination of at least onelaser light source. Accordingly, illuminating a surface for viewing canbe accomplished by many various techniques based on any of the abovefactors. Scanning may also be used to form an image of a predeterminedshape. Additionally, scanning may be used to effectively project awide-angle light for the purpose of lighting large target surfaces inclose proximity, to limit light bleeding past the edge of a target, toshape the projected light to correspond the shape of the target surface,or to change a color of the projected light throughout the scan (e.g.,to coincide with a color of the target surface).

Scanning may be performed using motors, electromagnetic motion, or anyother mechanism for moving the projected light on the target surface.Preferably, such mechanism would be capable of moving the projectedlight on the target surface quickly enough that the scan pattern wouldnot be perceived. Thus, for example, an actuator used for scanning mayimplement a mechanical, electromechanical, electromagnetic, or roboticdevice for moving any one of a laser, a diffuser, or any combinationthereof. Further examples include a crank extending from a motor,electromagnetic induction causing a magnet to move, a Cartesian robot, agantry robot, a cylindrical robot, spherical/polar robot, a SCARA robot,an articulated robot, and a parallel robot. In some instances, thisscanning/moving can be computer controlled (e.g., using amicroprocessor) and scanning/moving can be based on any of the abovefactors.

To ease understanding of the disclosed subject matter, below are a fewexamples of how scanning/moving can be accomplished. However, it isenvisioned that any number of alternative scanning techniques can beused without deviating from the scope of the disclosed subject matter.Further, any of the techniques described below can be used alone or incombination to move/scan any one of at least one laser, at least onediffuser, or any combination thereof alone or in conjunction.

Referring to FIGS. 8A-C, in some embodiments, a dynamic laser lightsource can be used for illuminating surface for viewing. While FIGS.8A-C do not illustrate a diffuser, it should be understood that adiffuser may be added to these embodiments to produce a desired shape,as discussed above.

Referring to FIG. 8A, a dynamic laser light source is mechanical movedin a vertical axis in accordance with some embodiments of the disclosedsubject matter. As depicted, laser light source 102 can be mounted in agimbal style mount 802 having a horizontal axis stand 804 and a verticalaxis stand 805. This mount allows movement of laser light source 102 ona horizontal and vertical axis or movement in any angle desired.Although described as a gimbal style mount, laser light source 102 canbe mounted in a ball and socket type mount or any type of mount thatallows for movement in one or two axis or in any angle desired. Asshown, laser light source 102 uses a diffuser (not shown) creating adesired pattern 806 (e.g., a substantially ovoidal pattern) that isscanned along a predetermined path (i.e., up and down a vertical path).Scanning up and down a vertical path with an ovoidal desired patternilluminates surface 110.

In some embodiment, vertical movement of laser light source 102 can beinduced by a first crank 808 driven by a first motor 810 with a firstfixator 812 located at an offset from the center of first crank 808. Asfirst fixator 812 connects at one end to first crank 808 and at theother end to laser 102, when first crank 808 rotates first fixator 812drives laser 102 up and down along a vertical axis.

Referring to FIG. 8B, in some embodiments, horizontal movement can beinduced by a second crank 814 driven by a second motor 816 where asecond fixator 818 is located at an offset from the center of secondcrank 814. As second fixator 818 connects at one end to second crank 814and at the other end to laser 102, when second crank 814 rotates secondfixator 818 drives laser 102 back and forth along a horizontal axis. Insome instances, laser light source 102 uses a diffuser (not shown)creating a desired pattern 820 (e.g., a substantially round pattern)that can be scanned along a predetermined path (i.e., back and fourthalong a horizontal path) illuminating surface 110.

Still referring to FIG. 8B, in some embodiments, vertical and horizontalmovement of the laser can be combined. That is, as vertical movement oflaser light source 102 is induced by first crank 808 driven by firstmotor 810 with first fixator 812 located at an offset from the center offirst crank 808; horizontal movement is also induced by second crank 814driven by second motor 816 with second fixator 818 located at an offsetfrom the center of second crank 814. This combination can allow for anymovement of desired pattern 820 through any predetermined path onsurface 110.

Referring to FIG. 8C, in some embodiments, vertical and horizontalmovement of the laser is driven by electromagnetic induction. Forexample, first fixator 812 can be attached to laser 102 at one end andat a second end can include a first magnet 822 housed in anelectromagnetic device 824 capable of varying polarity (i.e., magneticpolarity). By varying polarity first magnet 822 can move in a first andsecond direction driving first fixator 812 up and down along a verticalaxis. Further, second fixator 818 can be attached to laser 102 at oneend and at a second end can include a second magnet 826 housed in anelectromagnetic device 828 capable of varying polarity. By varyingpolarity second magnet 826 can move in a first and second directiondriving second fixator 818 back and forth along horizontal axis.

Further, in some embodiments, vertical and horizontal movement of thelaser controlled by electromagnetic induction can be combined. Forexample, as vertical movement is driven by first fixator 812 attached tolaser 102 at one end and at a second end including first magnet 822housed in electromagnetic device 824 capable of varying polarity;horizontal movement is driven by second fixator 818 attached to laser102 at one end and at a second end including second magnet 826 housed inelectromagnetic device 828 capable of varying polarity. As shown, thiscombination of vertical and horizontal movement allows a desired pattern830 to scan through a predetermined path thereby illuminating surface110. Further, as shown in FIG. 8C surface 110 can, as described above,be any shape thus desired pattern 830 may be required to scan through asubstantially complex predetermined path for illuminating surface 110.

Referring to FIGS. 9A-D, at least one dynamic diffuser can be moved inaccordance with some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter. Asdescribed above, diffusers can be moved by any technique deemed suitablefor producing controlled movement. Electromagnetic induction for movinga reflective diffuser is described with respect to FIGS. 9A-B. Amechanical technique for moving a reflective diffuser is described withrespect to FIGS. 9C-D. However, any technique deemed suitable forproducing controlled movement of a diffuser can be used withoutdeviating from the scope of the disclosed subject matter. For example,it should be understood that the diffusers depicted in FIGS. 9A-D arenot limited to reflective diffusers. Further, one or more lens diffusersmay be dynamic. Even further, any additional diffuser can be positionedat any location before/after interacting with a first diffuser and/orbefore/after any plurality of diffusers.

Referring to FIG. 9A, in accordance with some embodiments, desiredpattern 902 can be scanned on surface 110 by moving a plurality ofreflective and or phosphorous coated diffusers (i.e., dynamic reflectiveor phosphorous coated diffusers). The dynamic reflective or phosphorouscoated diffuser can be any form of diffuser previously described and canbe moved by any technique deemed suitable. As shown, the reflective orphosphorous coated diffusers movement can be driven by electromagneticinduction. For example, laser light source 102 can be statically mountedand the laser light can interact with a first dynamic reflectivediffuser 904. First dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser904 can be a reflective or phosphorous coated surface capable of movingby, for example, using a bearing assemblies 908, an electromagneticdevice 910, and a first fixator 912 including a first magnet 914. Asshown first fixator 912 can be centrally attached to first dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 904. In use, first dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 904 can be driven by firstdynamic fixator 912 centrally attached to first dynamic reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser 904 at one end and at a second end includingfirst magnet 914 housed in electromagnetic device 910 capable of varyingpolarity. As the polarity changes first dynamic reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser 904 can be driven in a first and seconddirection while, for example, being guided by bearing assemblies orhinge points 908. Further, after interacting with first dynamicreflective diffuser 904 the laser light can further interact with asecond dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 906.

By way of example, second dynamic reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser 906 can be driven by electromagnetic induction. For example,after interacting with first dynamic reflective diffuser 904, laserlight can interact with second dynamic reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser 906. Second dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser906 can be a reflective or phosphorous coated surface capable of movingby, for example, using a second bearing assembly or pivot point 916, asecond electromagnetic device 920, and a second fixator 922 including asecond magnet 924. As shown, second fixator 922 can be attached tosecond dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 906 at anoffset from second bearing assembly or pivot point 916. In use, seconddynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 906 can be driven bysecond fixator 922 attached to second dynamic reflective or phosphorouscoated diffuser 906 at one end and at a second end including secondmagnet 924 housed in second electromagnetic device 920 capable ofvarying polarity. As the polarity changes second fixator 922 can bedriven in a first and second direction causing second dynamic reflectivediffuser 906 to move at an angle relative to the offset from secondbearing or pivot point 916. The combination of first dynamic reflectiveor phosphorous coated diffuser 904 moving and second dynamic reflectiveor phosphorous coated diffuser 906 moving scans desired pattern 902 onsurface 110 through a predetermined path.

Referring to FIG. 9B, in accordance with some embodiments, desiredpattern 902 can be scanned on surface 110 by a single dynamic reflectiveor phosphorous coated diffuser 926. Single dynamic reflective orphosphorous coated diffuser 926 can be mounted in, for example, a gimbalor any other style mount that allows for multi axis movement. As shown,single dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 926 can includea shaped surface (e.g., concave surface). Further, single dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated surface 926 can be moved by a first andsecond fixator 928, 930. By way of example, first and second fixator928, 930 can be moved by any of the techniques previously mentioned,such as, electromagnetic induction. Further, as shown, the location offirst and second fixator 928, 930 can vary driving single dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 926 in more than onedirection. Driving single reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 926in more than one direction scans desired pattern 902 through apredetermined path on surface 110.

Referring to FIG. 9C, scanning can be accomplished by rotating a dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 932 having multiple reflectiveor phosphorous coated surfaces 934A-F in accordance with someembodiments of the disclosed subject matter. As shown, dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 932 can have a hexagoncolumnar shape capable rotating about its center axis. As dynamicreflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 932 rotates, each ofreflective or coated surfaces 934A-F reflects the laser light therebyscanning in a first direction 936. That is, unlike the previoustechniques of scanning, this allows for repeated scanning in a singlefirst direction only.

Referring to FIG. 9D, a dynamic reflective or phosphorous coateddiffuser 938 can be mounted on an angle to a shaft 910 of a motor 942.In use, as dynamic reflective or phosphorous coated diffuser 938 rotateslaser light 944 reflects thereby scanning through 360 degrees.

FIG. 10 illustrates an aspect of the invention where the illuminator isused to illuminate a panel 1030. Illumination may be performed using asemi coherent scanning beam method. A coherent or semi-coherent beam1010 may be projected from source 1002 and reflected off a reflective orphosphorous coated surface 1006 of an actuator 1022. The reflected beam1012 may pass through an edge 1032 of the panel 1030. The actuator 1022,or the reflective or phosphorous coated surface 1006 thereof, may movein any of a number of directions, thereby enabling scanning of thereflected beam 1012 throughout the panel 1030. For example, thereflective or phosphorous coated surface 1006 may pivot back and forthon an access point 1016, thereby causing the projected beam 1010 toreflect at various angles. Accordingly, the reflected beam 1012 may scanback and forth across an edge 1032 of the panel 1030. Such scanning maybe performed at a rate which is fast enough that the beam itself is notdetected by a human eye. Rather, the eye will perceive the entire panel1030 as being illuminated.

According to one aspect, the edge 1032 of the panel 1030 may be milledin an angle, curve, or both to act as a lens to diffuse and redirect thereflected beam 1012 to another surface of the panel 1030. For example,as shown in FIG. 10, the edge 1032 is milled in a concave shape, thusfacilitated the spreading of the beam within the panel 1030.

According to a further aspect, the panel 1030 may include a coatingalong other edges, through which the reflected beam 1012 does not pass.For example, edges 1034, 1036 may be coated with a bright, phosphorous,or reflective material to reflect light in any or many directions withinthe panel 1030. In addition the edges that are coated can be milled inany angle or curve to further diffuse light within the panel 1030.

A back side of the panel 1030 may be covered with a bright surface,phosphorous, or a high reflective material that uses microscopic bead orgrains to further defuse and reflect light, as illustrated in FIG. 11.For example, as reflected beam 1112 passes through edge 1132 of a panel,the beam 1112 is diffused in many different directions. Because an edge1138 of the panel is coated with grains 1140, light is refracted off thegrains 1140 and back into the panel, rather than passing through thepanel. Additionally, light passing through edge 1132 which travels to anopposing edge 1134 may be reflected off the edge 1134 and dispersedbecause of the convex shape and or phosphorous coating. Such reflectionand dispersion may facilitate illumination by spreading light throughoutthe panel.

FIG. 12 illustrates illumination of a panel 1230 using a light beam 1210reflected off a reflective or phosphorous coated surface 1206 of anactuator 1222. The actuator 1222 may cause the reflective or phosphorouscoated surface 1206 to rotate about an axis. As the reflective surface1206 is rotated, light 1210 may be reflected to different portions ofthe panel 1230. The actuator 1222 may include miniature motors or thelike which enable it to rotate the reflective or phosphorous coatedsurface 1206. According to one aspect, the reflective surface may rotate360 degrees from a location within the panel. For example, the panel1230 may include a bore 1250 near its center, and the reflective surface1206 may be positioned in the bore 1250 so as to distribute lightrelatively evenly throughout. Thus, for example, the light beam 1210 mayreflect off the reflective or phosphorous coated surface 1206 at a rightangle through the panel 1230. As the motor rotates the reflective orphosphorous coated surface 1206, the beam is reflected 360 degreesaround through an edge 1255 of the bore 1250 and into the panel 1230.According to one aspect, the edge 1255 of the panel adjacent the bore1255 may be curved to facilitate the distribution of light within thepanel 1230. The edge 1255 may also be cut to an angle, curve, or both,and can be phosphorous coated to achieve any desired effect.

FIG. 13 represents another embodiment, wherein a reflective orphosphorous coated surface 1306 positioned within a panel 1330 may berotated by an actuator 1322 to spread light 1310 from a source 1302around the panel. In this embodiment, the reflective or phosphorouscoated surface 1306 is positioned above the panel 1330. Additionally,the panel 1330 has a top surface 1332 which is milled to a wedge shape.The top surface 1332 may be coated with a reflective or phosphorouscoating, so that light is further reflected onto an illumination panel1370. As shown in the illustration, the shape of the top surface 1332causes reflected beams 1360 to produce an oval shape 1362 on theillumination panel 1370 that could be phosphorous coated. As thereflective surface 1306 is rotated, thereby scanning light across theentire top surface 1332, the reflected beams 1360 will produce an image1364 in the shape of a larger oval. Accordingly, the illumination panel1370 is “backlit” by light source 1302 and the panel 1330 to produce aparticular image 1364.

As illustrated in FIG. 14, backlighting may be achieved using a panel1430 having a curved bottom surface 1434. The bottom surface may becoated with a reflective or phosphorous coating. Reflective surface 1406may be positioned within a bore in the panel 1430 to reflect lightthroughout the panel. The light may be reflected off the coated bottomsurface 1434, and the reflected beams may project onto an illuminationpanel (not shown) to form an image. Thus, backlighting is achieved whilethe bottom surface 1434 of the panel 1430 is protected from weatherelements etc.

Backlighting may be achieved using a panel of any of a variety of shapesor coated materials. For example, FIGS. 15A-15C shows portions of panels1530A, 1530B, and 1530C having different shapes. Panel. 1530A includes aslop at an angle such that light may be reflected at approximately 90degree angles. Panel 1530B is shaped in a concave manner to causediffusion of light projected thereon. Panel 1530C includes a surfacehaving multiple angles. This allows for a beam to be reflected across alarger panel surface by separating the convex angles with horizontalareas running between them and in parallel with the coherent light in astair step fashion. A defused coherent light source can also be used ifthe light from the coherent source is not thick enough to engulf theground angles in the panel.

It should also be understood that t h e reflective or phosphorous coatedsurface may be positioned anywhere within the panel (e.g., closer to anedge, in the center, below the panel, etc.), may be adjusted to reflectlight at any of a variety of angles, and may move in a number ofdifferent directions. For example, the reflective or phosphorous coatedsurface may be continually repositioned at different angles during thescanning process. Additionally, the reflective or phosphorous coatedsurface may oscillate back and forth to scan a panel's edge, as opposedto rotating 360 degrees. Even further, it should be understood that thepanel 1330 may be moved relative to the illumination panel 1370 to varythe coverage area and intensity of the image 1364 produced by scannedreflective beams 1360.

As described in the above examples, scanning/moving can be accomplishedby various suitable techniques. It will be understood that any of thetechniques described in the above examples of scanning can be used formoving and any of examples used for moving can be used for scanning.Again, it is envisioned that any number of alternative scanning/movingtechniques can be used without deviating from the scope of the disclosedsubject matter. For example, any of the above described examples can beused alone, or in conjunction with scanning/moving by a cartesian robot;a gantry robot; a cylindrical robot; spherical/polar robot; a SCARArobot; an articulated robot; a parallel robot; or in any combinationthereof.

In some embodiments, the laser light source can be activated (i.e.,produce a laser) when a sensor detects light. That is, if the laserlight source requires minimal warm up time then the laser light sourcecan be connected to sensors that detect and/or interact with traffic forilluminating the surface for viewing only when needed. This can reducemaintenance and save energy.

FIG. 16 shows a system according to an aspect of the invention includinga computer 1600 connected to a sensor 1640 and an illumination system1620. The computer 1600 may control the illumination device 1620 basedon input from the sensor 1640. For example, sensor 1640 may be a trafficsensor configured to detect the presence of motor vehicles. As trafficsensor 1640 detects the presence of motor vehicle 1630, it may transmita signal to the computer 1600. The signal may be transmitted via a wiredconnection or wirelessly. The computer 1600 in turn may instruct theillumination device 1620 to activate and illuminate road sign 1622according to any of the method described herein. Thus, the road sign1622 may be illuminated only when necessary (i.e., when a motorist ispresent to view it).

In accordance with one embodiment, the computer 1600 may include aprocessor 1602, memory 1610, input/output (I/O) port 1612, and othercomponents typically present in general purpose computers.

Memory 1610 stores information accessible by the processor 1602,including instructions 1618 for execution by the processor 1602 and data1612 which is retrieved, manipulated or stored by the processor 1602.The memory 1610 may be of any type capable of storing informationaccessible by the processor, such as a hard-drive, ROM, RAM, CD-ROM,write-capable, read-only, or the like.

The instructions 1618 may comprise any set of instructions to beexecuted directly (such as machine code) or indirectly (such as scripts)by the processor. In that regard, the terms “instructions,” “steps” and“programs” may be used interchangeably herein. The functions, methodsand routines of the program in accordance with the present invention areexplained in more detail below.

Data 1616 may be retrieved, stored or modified by processor 1602 inaccordance with the instructions 1618. The data may be stored as acollection of data. For instance, although the invention is not limitedby any particular data structure, the data may be stored in computerregisters, in a relational database as a table having a plurality ofdifferent fields and records, as an XML. The data may also be formattedin any computer readable format such as, but not limited to, binaryvalues, ASCII or EBCDIC (Extended Binary-Coded Decimal InterchangeCode). Moreover, any information sufficient to identify the relevantdata may be stored, such as descriptive text, proprietary codes,pointers, or information which is used by a function to calculate therelevant data.

Although the processor 1602 and memory 1610 are functionally illustratedin FIG. 16 within the same block, it will be understood by those ofordinary skill in the art that the processor 1602 and memory 1610 mayactually comprise multiple processors and memories that may or may notbe stored within the same physical housing. For example, some or all ofthe instructions and data may be stored on removable CD-ROM and otherswithin a read only computer chip. Some or all of the instructions anddata may be stored in a location physically remote from, yet stillaccessible by, the processor. Similarly, the processor may actuallycomprise a collection of processors which may or may not operate inparallel.

As noted above, the computer 1600 may comprise additional componentstypically found in a computer system such as a display (e.g., an LCDscreen), user input (e.g., a keyboard, mouse, game pad, touch-sensitivescreen), a modem (e.g., telephone or cable modem), and all of thecomponents used for connecting these elements to one another.

In addition or alternatively to merely illuminating the road sign 1622in response to sensing traffic, other illumination effects may be used.For example, the illumination device 1620 may change a color of thelight emitted, alter the brightness of the light, or modify the scanningroutine (e.g., to produce a different shape image on a panel). It shouldbe understood that such modifications of lighting effects by theillumination device 1620 may take place in response to any of a numberof conditions. For example, the sensor 1640 may be used to detect light,sound, seismic conditions, color, distance, etc.

Although described as a computer system, it will be understood thatcomputer system 1000 can be a stand-alone microprocessor capable ofcontrolling any of the aforementioned scanning techniques.

According to one aspect, the computer 1600 may also receive informationfrom the illumination system 1620. In this regard, for example, thecomputer 1600 may provide to a user information pertinent to maintenanceof the illumination system 1620.

FIG. 17 further clarifies another aspect where a dynamic diffuser usingmultiple elements modifies shapes to create desire patterns, whereas1621 positioned to emit coherent or semi-coherent light onto a diffusermade of multiple elements that are independent reflective or phosphorouscoated surfaces as depict with 1622,1623, and 1624. Each element withtheir independent actuators pivots independently on the same plane sideby side. The elements can be position side by side or in two dimensionsalong the same plane to create the desired effect. To furtherillustrate, 1623's reflection is shown as being scanned off the panel orsurface 1628 by its actuator being activated. The elements can be movedby any of the techniques previously mentioned, such as, electromagneticinduction.

Although the present invention has been described with reference toparticular embodiments, it should be understood that these examples aremerely illustrative of the principles and applications of the presentinvention. Moreover, it should be understood that numerous othermodifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that otherarrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A system for illuminating an object,comprising: a light source of coherent or semi-coherent light; a firstphosphorus coated diffuser positioned relative to the light source so asto receive said coherent or semi-coherent light, said first phosphoruscoated diffuser diffusing the coherent or semi-coherent light to producediffused light; and an electromagnetically driven actuator havingmoveable elements positioned to project the diffused light onto anobject, wherein at least one of the coherent light source, said firstphosphorus coated diffuser, and the actuator are sized to fit within theobject.
 2. The system for illuminating according to claim 1, wherein themoveable elements are reflective surfaces.
 3. The system forilluminating according to claim 1, further comprising a computer,wherein the computer is programmed to control movement of the moveableelements.
 4. The system for illuminating according to claim 1, whereinthe moveable elements move according to a predefined routine.
 5. Thesystem for illuminating an object, comprising: a light source ofcoherent or semi-coherent light; a first diffuser positioned relative tothe light source so as to receive said coherent or semi-coherent light,said diffuser diffusing the coherent or semi-coherent light to producediffused light; and an actuator having a moveable element positioned toproject the diffused light onto an object, wherein at least one of thecoherent light source, the first diffuser, and the actuator are sized tofit within the object and the moveable elements are phosphorus coatedsurfaces.
 6. The system for illuminating according to claim 5, whereinthe moveable element is a phosphorus coated surface.